a form of written command in the name of a court or other legal authority to act, or abstain from acting, in some way, a formal written order issued by a government agency or other public authority, a piece of writing, especially one that is carefully crafted or stylized

writ large, writ small, writ of execution

Formal and Informal Expressions of writ

In different contexts, you can replace 'writ' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'order, command, decree' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'piece of writing, note' is a commonplace synonym.

writ: Explore its Definition & Usage

writ Definition

1a form of written command in the name of a court or other legal authority to act, or abstain from acting, in some way
2a formal written order issued by a government agency or other public authority
3a piece of writing, especially one that is carefully crafted or stylized

Using writ: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "writ" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The judge issued a writ of habeas corpus.
Example
The company received a writ from the tax office.
Example
She was known for her beautiful writ and calligraphy.
Example
He spent hours perfecting the writ for his novel.

writ Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for writ

Phrases with writ

writ large
clearly and obviously demonstrated
Example
The problems of the company are writ large in its financial statements.
writ small
in a small or reduced form
Example
The painting is a masterpiece, even though it is just a writ small version of the original.
writ of execution
a legal order that authorizes the seizure of property to satisfy a judgment against a debtor
Example
The creditor obtained a writ of execution to seize the debtor's assets.

Origins of writ

from Old English 'writan', meaning 'to write'

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Summary: writ in Brief

A 'writ' [rɪt] is a written command issued by a court or government agency, or a piece of writing that is carefully crafted. Examples include 'The judge issued a writ of habeas corpus,' and 'She was known for her beautiful writ and calligraphy.' The phrase 'writ large' means clearly demonstrated, while 'writ small' means in a small or reduced form.